President Thongloun Sisoulith, alongside Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on Nov 29, marking the Lao National Day with foreign diplomats. - VT
VIENTIANE: Laos, ahead of Lao National Day, marked its 49th anniversary with a high-level gathering in Vientiane on Friday (Nov 29), attended by senior government officials and the diplomatic corps.
The event set out to offer a platform to celebrate Laos’ progress and reaffirm its role in the global community, highlighting its achievements and future aspirations.
At the event, President Thongloun Sisoulith welcomed ambassadors and representatives of international organisations in Laos, with the Turkish Ambassador, Orhan Isik, as a senior foreign diplomat, representing the group at large.
President Thongloun thanked Ambassador Isik and the diplomatic community for their continued friendship and support.
In his address, he acknowledged the messages of goodwill extended to the government and people of Laos, emphasising the enduring cooperation and strong ties between the country and its international partners.
He described these relationships as a source of encouragement for Laos in its mission to protect and develop the nation.
Reflecting on the nation’s progress, President Thongloun noted that the Lao people take pride in the achievements of the past 49 years.
He paid tribute to the sacrifices of earlier generations who fought for independence and laid the foundations for development.
President Thongloun also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uniting the people and building a brighter future.
Despite ongoing challenges, including global uncertainties, the President highlighted key achievements for Laos in 2024, including economic growth, political stability, and social security.
“These developments create a strong foundation for Laos to graduate from its least developed country status in the near future, as listed by the UN,” the President said.
The President also expressed appreciation for the support provided by friendly nations and international organisations, recognising their contributions to Laos’ progress.
He specifically acknowledged their assistance in Laos’ successful chairmanship of ASEAN in 2024 and reaffirmed the country’s dedication to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development regionally and globally.
Looking ahead, President Thongloun said that 2025 will be a landmark year as Laos celebrates its 50th anniversary and the 70th anniversary of its UN membership.
It will also mark the final year of the country’s Ninth National Socio-Economic Development Plan and preparations for exiting its least developed status by 2026.
He expressed confidence in Laos’ ability to achieve these goals with continued international support and the resilience of the Lao people.
In addition, Turkish Ambassador Isik, speaking on behalf of the diplomatic corps, congratulated Laos on its 49th anniversary and its Asean chairmanship.
He commended the Lao government for fostering a favourable environment for diplomatic and organisational work.
Ambassador Isik reaffirmed the commitment of the international community at the event to strengthening cooperation with Laos based on friendship, unity, and mutual respect. - Vientiane Times/ANN
